9 recalls across 9 model years
The BMW 740Li has 9 recalls spanning 2012 through 2022, with the most serious being a starter motor fire risk on 2020-2022 models where repeated start attempts can overheat the starter and ignite nearby materials in the engine compartment. On 2021 models, the rear output shafts that deliver power to the rear wheels can fracture, cutting drive power or allowing the vehicle to roll if parked without the parking brake engaged. Also on 2021 models, the 12-volt battery connection can develop high electrical resistance and create a fire risk. The 2020-2021 models have a brake system issue where the hydraulic brake booster can fail, reducing braking assistance and disabling anti-lock brakes.
The 2019-2020 model years have a backup camera that can go dark when reversing, removing rear visibility. On 2020-2021 models, the top child seat tether anchor on the rear center seat may not be accessible, meaning a child seat installed there without using the three-point belt may not be properly secured in a crash.
Going back further, 2016 models built between July and December 2015 have an airbag control module that can reset randomly due to an electrical short, and if a crash occurs during that reset window, the front airbags may not deploy. The 2012 model year has a CV joint that can fracture and cause sudden loss of drive power. On 2013-2015 models, some vehicles may have received incorrect replacement left rear taillight assemblies that make the vehicle less visible to drivers behind it.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Top 8 of 8 categories across BMW 740LI
| Component | Recalls | Share | Critical | High | Medium | Low | Informational |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | 2 | 22% | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Airbags | 1 | 11% | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Powertrain | 1 | 11% | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Lighting | 1 | 11% | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Visibility | 1 | 11% | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Seats | 1 | 11% | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Transmission | 1 | 11% | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Brakes | 1 | 11% | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Component categories are grouped from raw recall data and may not match manufacturer terminology exactly.